There are several ways to be green in the garden and make your outside space more environmentally friendly.
Water
Water is an essential resource and a valuable one at that – every drop should count in your garden. Use a drip feed system to reduce the waste and ensure that water is directed into the exact spot it’s needed. Use rainwater rather than tap water so you should consider a water butt – but make sure you choose a large one if possible.
A water feature such as a pond will provide a home for amphibians and insects and drinking and bathing water for birds and mammals. Alternatively install a bird bath.
Grow your own
Not only does growing your own produce cut down on money and your carbon footprint, it also gives a great deal of satisfaction. In addition, you’ll be supporting insect life in your garden including all-important pollinators. Plant a flower rich garden will provide a diverse range of nectar year-round and your garden will look beautiful too.
Herbs are also a great choice – they are highly attractive to insects and you can use them for cooking and home remedies.
Electricity
Install solar powered lights and water features to save on electricity. They are easy to install, relatively cheap and you’ll be getting free power following installation.
Make your garden more connected
By having solid fencing and walls in your garden, you’re preventing the free movement of small mammals. Hedgehogs need gaps of around 10x10cm to get around and in between gardens so use hedging as borders and help to create a green highway for the wildlife.
Compost
Don’t use compost that has peat as this can destroy ecosystems. Make your own compost using recycled garden and food waste, helping to produce moisture rich mulch. It also provides habitat for wildlife including worms, lizards, hedgehogs and rodents. Fallen leaves can also be stored in biodegradable leaf sacks which can later be used as fertiliser.
Trees
By planting a tree you’ll not only install beautiful greenery in your home you are making your garden attractive to wildlife, giving your garden shade, purifying the air and reducing noise pollution.